The program is part of the city's organic recycling program that was established last fall, but Republicans David Henke and Brian Dickerson strongly opposed plans to buy equipment to make and sell colored wood chips. Henke argues that it goes beyond the core services to the public and the program would compete with the private sector.

3. Downtown Elkhart merchants worry about loss of parking due to sewer project

They are concerned about where their customers will park their cars once the Gause lot off Waterfall Drive and Jackson Boulevard is closed temporarily for the installation of the tank. The city plans to open a 28-space lot south of Dairy Queen and other parking accommodations are in the works.